Instinctual Motherhood Podcast

Assumptive language robs women of autonomy. True informed consent gives it back. This conversation with HeHe Stewart, doula and childbirth educator, dives into how to recognize coercion in both prenatal appointments and the birth room, why doulas are critical for first-time moms (and their partners), and the exact scripts you can use to pause, decline, or request. If you’ve ever wondered whether you “need” a doula, this episode will show you why support, advocacy, and choice aren’t luxuries—they’re essential. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to spot assumptive language and shift the conversation Why true informed consent is more than just saying “yes” The real role of a doula (and why your partner benefits, too) Key questions to ask OBs, midwives, and doulas before birth Simple scripts to pause, decline, or request care without confrontation Resources & Links Find a doula near you: DoulaMatch Follow HeHe on Instagram: @tranquilitybyhehe HeHe’s website: TranquilityByHehe Free resource—Instinctual Birth Plan Blueprint

Motherhood isn’t color-coded planners and spotless houses. It’s meltdowns over the wrong snack, potty training struggles, and teenagers rolling their eyes like you’re the least cool person alive. And yet, it’s also bedtime milestones that leave you both proud and teary, little voices learning new words, and kids who are slowly becoming best friends. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the mic and sharing what life really looks like for me right now. From raising two toddlers while also navigating the teenage years, to considering another baby, to shifts I’m making in my own life and this business. I want this to feel like we’re sitting down for a coffee date and catching up on real life, not just the highlight reel. You’ll hear: - The messy and magical parts of our current season (potty training, speech progress, and teenagers testing limits) - The shifts I’m making personally—from not drinking, to leaning deeper into motherhood, to refining where I want this business to grow - What’s happening behind the scenes at Instinctual Motherhood, including the free Birth Plan Blueprint and a new mini-workshop on advocacy I’m building for you - The reminders I’m holding onto about motherhood, kids, and finding joy in the everyday This isn’t a five-step strategy episode - it’s a real, unfiltered life update. My hope is that it encourages you to embrace your own messy, beautiful season of motherhood and know that you’re not alone in figuring it all out. And if you’re expecting or know someone who is, don’t forget to grab my free Instinctual Birth Plan Blueprint—a guide to help you move beyond just checking boxes and create a plan that reflects your instincts, your values, and your voice. Download it now at instinctualmotherhood.com/birthplan.

You’ve probably spent hours researching strollers, car seats, and swaddles for your registry… but what about your birth plan? In this episode of Instinctual Motherhood, I’m sharing what I wish I had known before writing my first birth plan. From the mistake of “just going with the flow,” to why every mom needs a backup plan, how to define your non-negotiables, and the role your partner and doula can play in advocating for you—you’ll learn what a birth plan is really about, and why the paper itself isn’t the power…the process is. No matter where you plan to give birth—hospital, birth center, or home—this conversation will help you create a birth plan rooted in your instincts and feel confident making decisions when it matters most. ✨ Grab your free Instinctual Birth Plan Blueprint at instinctualmotherhood.com/birthplan and start building a plan that truly reflects you—not just a checklist. Want to go deeper into the spectrum of birth? Don’t miss Episode 023. And if you’re looking for clean, non-toxic supplements to support every season of motherhood, I love Just Ingredients—from vitamins to electrolytes and protein powders, they have everything you need to stay nourished. Use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout for 10% off.

Most moms spend hours on their baby registry but only minutes on their birth plan—and it shows. The truth? Most birth plans are just checklists that leave out the pieces that matter most. In this episode of Instinctual Motherhood, I’m breaking down the 5 things missing from most birth plans—and how to add them in so you can walk into birth feeling prepared, supported, and empowered. From instincts and emotional safety to advocacy, flexibility, and postpartum planning, this episode will give you the tools to create a birth plan that actually works for you (not just your provider). Want step-by-step support creating yours? Download my FREE Instinctual Birth Plan Blueprint at InstinctualMotherhood.com/birthplan. Get 10% off Just Ingredients supplements when you use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout  

Birth isn’t just “epidural in the hospital” or “unmedicated at home.” In reality, birth exists on a spectrum—and where you fall on that spectrum can shape the birth plan that feels safest and most instinctual for you. In this episode, Jordyn walks you through the five points on the spectrum of birth—from medical preferred to biological —and helps you reflect on where you naturally align. You’ll discover why your instincts might look different from your friends’ or family’s, how experiences and new information shift your choices, and why knowing your place on the spectrum matters when creating a birth plan. You’ll learn: What the spectrum of birth is (and why it changes everything) How to uncover where you fall on the spectrum Why most birth plans fail How to use your instincts to build a birth plan that truly works for you ✨ Plus, Jordyn shares her brand-new free resource: The Instinctual Birth Plan Blueprint, a guide to help you research your options, identify your non-negotiables, and confidently advocate for the birth you deserve. Download it free here: instinctualmotherhood.com/birthplan   You can't pour from an empty cup mama, keep your body hydrated and fueled with clean supplements. Head over to Just Ingredients and use code Jordyn.Riegel for 10% off at checkout!

If you're a soon-to-be or brand-new mom drowning in conflicting advice, this episode is for you. In this raw solo episode, I’m taking you back to my first postpartum experience—the one where I ignored all the “rest” rules, tried to bounce back too quickly, and believed I had to prove I could do it all. Spoiler: I regret it. Now, as a mom of two, I’m sharing the five things I’d beg my first-time postpartum self to do differently—from truly following the 5-5-5 rest rule, to letting the house be messy, to unapologetically holding your baby as much as you want. Whether you’re preparing for birth, deep in the newborn fog, or reflecting on your own early motherhood days, this episode will help you feel seen, grounded, and empowered to do postpartum your way. 💛 Listen in to hear: The truth about the 5-5-5 postpartum rule (and why I skipped it the first time) Why rest > productivity in early motherhood How to let go of the pressure to “bounce back” The importance of asking for (and accepting) help Why holding your baby all day is not spoiling them—it's instinctual Because you don’t get to redo your first postpartum season... but you can learn from mine. 👇 Ready to set your postpartum experience up for more rest, support, and instinctual care? Press play now. If you are looking for personalized support in postpartum, I would love to walk alongside you. Head to instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching to book your free 15 minute call today!   Looking to support your body as a mom? Head over to Just Ingredients to get all the supplements you need - my personal favorites are the electrolytes and vegan protein powder. Use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout for 10% off.

Tired of being told to “just sleep train” your baby? Let’s talk about what’s actually normal. In this conversation with Brittni from Resting in Motherhood, we’re busting myths about baby sleep, breaking down the science behind night wakings, and exposing how the sleep training industry profits from moms who feel broken. Brittni Mella Cepeda is a certified infant & toddler sleep specialist, mom to one, and worked with over 600 families to help moms get more sleep without having to sleep train or ignoring their instincts. If you’ve ever questioned whether sleep training is the only way—or felt shame for co-sleeping, nursing to sleep, or contact napping—this episode is for you. We dive into the science of baby sleep, why night wakings are normal, the impact of sleep training on a baby’s nervous system, and how co-sleeping and contact naps can actually support your child’s development. Whether you’re exhausted and considering sleep training or you just want to feel less alone in the middle of the night, this episode is your permission slip to trust your instincts. Topics we cover: Biologically normal sleep in babies and toddlers Co-sleeping vs. independent sleep What the research actually says about sleep training Nervous system regulation for babies and moms What to do when you’re exhausted but also don’t want to sleep train  Interested in learning more from Brittni? Head over to restinginmotherhood.com or @resting_in_motherhood on Instagram This week only, Just Ingredients anniversary sale, 20% off sitewide, new products, and code Jordyn.Riegel gets you free shipping! Sale is August 5-11!

We’ve been sold the lie that control is the key to “doing motherhood right.” Perfect routines. Predictable naps. A clean house. Especially those of us who were over-achievers and chased perfection before motherhood.  But what if the secret isn’t more control… it’s finally letting go? In this honest, hilarious, and deeply relatable conversation, I sit down with Sadie Golden—mom of 3 and might I say master of surrender—to talk about what it actually looks like to loosen your grip and start embracing motherhood. We dive into the mess, the meltdowns (ours and our kids’), and the moments that remind us: your peace doesn’t come from control—it comes from surrendering and being present in the now. Inside the episode, we chat about: Why trying to control everything is making motherhood harder—not better The glass vs. rubber ball mindset shift every mom needs Letting go of guilt when you prioritize yourself (yes, even to go to the gym) Why bouncing back to your old self isn’t the goal—and who you’re becoming is even better And how to tune out the noise, listen to your instincts, and finally breathe again If you’ve been white-knuckling motherhood and wondering why it still doesn’t feel good—this episode is your permission to drop the rulebook, surrender, and start doing it in a way that brings you more joy. To follow Sadie you can find her @sadiebreann on Instagram and @sadiebreann_ on TikTok Looking for supplements without junk ingredients? Head over to Just Ingredients and use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout for 10% off

You’re told your baby is just “colicky.” You’re told their reflux is “normal.” Maybe even that your breastmilk is the issue. But what if the real problem… is what you’re eating? In this episode, I share my personal story of discovering food sensitivities while breastfeeding—how dairy and gluten impacted both of my boys, the symptoms I couldn’t ignore, and how I made the decision to cut them out. In this episode: Why I cut gluten and dairy while breastfeeding (and how it changed everything) The symptoms no one told me could be food related The connection between dairy and chronic ear infections How to make a gluten and dairy free lifestyle actually doable - including how to go out to eat Encouragement for the mom who feels like something is off If you’re wondering whether food could be affecting your baby’s skin, sleep, reflux, or behavior, this episode might connect the dots for you. Wanting more support and to feel less overwhelmed in motherhood? Head over to instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching to book a free 15 minute call today Looking to clean up your supplements and hydration? Just Ingredients is exactly what you need to stay fueled and hydrated while chasing around little ones. Use code Jordyn.Riegel for 10% off at checkout

Is co-sleeping dangerous? Will it kill your sex life? And is sleep training really the only way to get some damn rest? Let’s break down the lies we’ve been sold. In this episode, I share: Why I swore I’d never co-sleep… and now I’ll never stop How my husband and I keep intimacy alive—even in different beds What most Western parents don’t realize about global co-sleeping And why the sleep training industry thrives on exhausted, desperate moms If you’re tired of being told you’re “doing it wrong,” this episode is your permission slip to trust yourself—and your baby. Learn the Safe Sleep 7 now Wanting more support in your motherhood journey so you can find more joy and confidence in motherhood? Book a free call today Clean up your supplements with Just Ingredients! Use code Jordyn.Riegel to get 10% off at checkout!

What kind of mom flies across the country with a toddler and a baby on less than 24 hours’ notice? Me. 🙋‍♀️ In this episode, I’m sharing the wild story of how I said YES to chaos, booked a last-minute trip to the Stanley Cup Final, and created one of our favorite family memories—tantrums, sleep deprivation, and all. If you've ever felt the tug between logic and your gut instinct in motherhood… this one’s for you.   Looking to find more joy in motherhood? Head over to instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching to book your FREE 15 minute call today

In this special episode of Instinctual Motherhood, I’m joined by my husband for a candid conversation about what it was really like supporting me through two home births—one as a first-time, unsure partner… and the second with a whole new level of confidence and trust. We’re sharing his honest thoughts from the moment I first brought up home birth during our pregnancy with Theodore, to what shifted between our first and second experiences. You’ll hear how his fears turned into confidence, what he wishes he had known going into our first birth, and the parts of home birth that surprised him most. If your partner is hesitant about birth outside the hospital—or if you just want a raw, supportive look into what it’s like from the partner’s perspective—this episode is for you. 🎧 In this episode, we talk about: What my husband really thought when I said “home birth” How he felt watching labor unfold at home—for both babies The mindset shifts between our first and second births His honest advice to any partner feeling unsure about birth outside the system Whether you’re planning your first birth or reflecting on your own, I hope this conversation reminds you that intuition, preparation, and support matter—for both of you. Ready to feel more confident in your birth decisions? Book a 1:1 coaching call with me to build a plan that aligns with your instincts and values instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching Looking for clean supplements you can actual trust? Head over to Just Ingredients and use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout for 10% off.  

This week, my baby Archer turns one—and to celebrate, I’m sharing his wild, beautiful home birth story. From contractions starting during a Florida Panthers Stanley Cup Final game, to laboring with my toddler awake, to birthing my second baby in just 90 minutes (with my midwife barely making it in time)—this birth was fast, intense, and deeply instinctual. As a second-time mom, I had learned so much from my first home birth—and this time, I fully leaned into surrender, intuition, and the power of letting my body lead. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what it’s like to birth at home (in a tiny 800 sq ft apartment) with a toddler nearby, how I managed labor with just my husband for support, and what made this birth experience even more powerful than the first. If you’re curious about home birth, prepping for baby #2, or just love a raw, real birth story—this one’s for you. Want to hear my birth story as a first time, home birth mom? Head over to Episode #006 to hear my birth story of Theodore. Looking for a post-birth tincture to help with cramps? Earthley Postpartum Ease the Ache is my favorite go to recommendation: https://earthley.com/products/ease-the-ache-womens-cramp-formula Need electrolytes to keep you fueled this summer? Just Ingredients has clean, great tasting electrolytes to keep you hydrated all summer long! Bonus if you can get your toddler to think they are juice or a popsicle. Use code Jordyn.Riegel to get 10% off your order at checkout!   Want help building your birth plan to align with your vision and values? I am offering FREE 15 minute discovery calls to work through creating a birth plan for the birth you desire head to instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching to book your spot today!

Summer with young kids can feel like a chaotic sprint—playdates, activities, travel, and pressure to make every moment magical. In this episode, I’m sharing how to slow down and create a more intentional summer rhythm that protects your peace. Whether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or navigating toddler life, you’ll learn how to ditch the hustle and build a slower, more joyful season for your family—with simple rhythms, clearer boundaries, and way less pressure to “do it all.” 👉 Want help creating your own slow, present summer? Book a FREE 15-minute discovery call and let’s build a plan that actually works for you. instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching Just Ingredients code: Jordyn.Riegel gets you 10% off at checkout

Are you tired of feeling like every decision you make as a mom is under a microscope? From birth and feeding to sleep and childcare, it seems like everyone has an opinion on what the “right” way is. But here’s the truth: there’s no one right way to mother—there’s your way. In this can't miss episode of Instinctual Motherhood, we’re cutting through the noise and dismantling the myth that you have to do it all perfectly to be a good mom. Jordyn walks you through the 3-step Instinctual Motherhood framework to help you: ✔️ Tune out the noise and tune into your own instincts ✔️ Define your unique parenting values (your 20% non-negotiables) ✔️ Let go of the guilt and step confidently into your motherhood Whether you co-sleep, formula feed, stay home, or go back to work—you get to choose what works for you and your baby. And around here? Every spot on the spectrum is valid. You’ll leave this episode feeling seen, empowered, and equipped to own your motherhood journey—without shame, without guilt, and without apology.   If you want to find joy in motherhood, I am taking on a few FREE calls now. Head over to instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching to book your spot today! Looking to clean up your supplements? Just Ingredients has everything you need. Use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout to get 10% off your order!

Tired of hearing “just wait for the terrible twos”? Same. In this episode, we’re breaking down toddler development, emotional regulation, and the real reason your two-year-old seems like a rollercoaster of feelings. You’ll walk away with empowering mindset shifts, practical tools for tough moments, and a whole new appreciation for this wildly important stage. Because two isn’t terrible—it’s transformative. Just Ingredient code: use Jordyn.Riegel at https://justingredients.us/ for 10% off your order!

Are you stressing about “bad habits” like rocking your baby to sleep, nursing them to sleep, co-sleeping, or not having a strict schedule? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong. In this episode of Instinctual Motherhood, I’m breaking down where the fear around these so-called "bad habits" comes from and why I let it go completely. Motherhood isn’t about forcing independence or following a rulebook—it’s about connection, tuning into your instincts, and meeting your baby’s real needs. Tune in as I share personal stories, mindset shifts, and how choosing connection over convenience changed everything for me—and why it might just lighten your motherhood journey too. If you’re ready to ditch the judgment and trust your instincts, this episode is for you. ✨ Don't forget to subscribe and come hang out with me on Instagram @instinctual_motherhood! Just Ingredients: use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout to get 10% off. Head over to https://justingredients.us/ to get the supplements you need to fuel you in motherhood!

The statement "Fed is Best" is doing moms a huge disservice. In today's episode, we dive deep into the truth behind infant feeding—beyond the oversimplified “Fed is Best” narrative. Jordyn explores the full spectrum of feeding options, from exclusive breastfeeding to formula feeding and everything in between, including pumping, combo feeding, and donor milk. You’ll learn what makes breastmilk biologically unmatched, how formula companies have shaped mainstream messaging, and why informed choice—not corporate influence—should guide how you feed your baby. This episode isn’t about shame. It’s about truth, empowerment, and helping moms understand what’s possible when they're fully supported. Because when you’re equipped with real information, you can confidently choose what’s actually best for you and your baby. Key topics include: The science-backed benefits of breastmilk Breaking down exclusive pumping, combo feeding, and donor milk Why “Fed is Best” oversimplifies a complex conversation How formula marketing manipulates vulnerable moms What real support for infant feeding should look like Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, combo feeding, or just preparing for postpartum—this is a conversation every mom deserves to hear.   Just Ingredients Discount Code: use Jordyn.Riegel to get 10% off at checkout https://justingredients.us/ 

The Real Talk on Juggling Two Very Young Babies and What I’d Do Differently Two babies. One tired mama. Zero sugarcoating. In this episode, I’m sharing what it’s really like to have two kids under two—from the chaos of survival mode to the sweet moments that make it all worth it. I’m breaking down what I’d do differently, how I managed (barely), and why you should take the help, wear the baby, and let go of perfection. Whether you’re pregnant with baby #2 or already in the thick of it, this is your honest look at life with 2 under 2. Just Ingredients discount code: Use code Jordyn.Riegel at checkout to get 10% off your order.  

What if you could have someone on your birth team who’s been there, knows how to guide you and your partner through labor, and helps you stay grounded in your birth plan when it matters most? Enter: the doula. In today’s episode of Instinctual Motherhood, we’re diving into why hiring a doula is one of the smartest decisions a first-time mom can make. Whether you’re planning a home birth, birth center, or hospital birth, this conversation will help you understand the critical role a doula plays in improving birth outcomes, supporting informed decisions, and advocating for the birth experience you desire. We’ll cover: What doulas actually do (spoiler: they don’t deliver babies, but they might just be your secret weapon) The data-backed benefits of having a doula on your team Why doulas are especially important in hospital births How to find the right doula for you—plus the questions you need to ask before hiring one What to look for to make sure your doula aligns with your values and birth preferences This episode is packed with practical tips, personal stories, and empowering reminders that you deserve support—the kind of support that makes you feel seen, heard, and held. ✨ Grab your free doula interview question guide  ✨ Book a free 15-minute birth plan coaching call with me at instinctualmotherhood.com/coaching ✨ Use code Jordyn.Riegel at ⁠https://justingredients.us/⁠ to get 10% off at checkout   Access the full show notes for today's episode: https://instinctualmotherhood.com/8-why-every-first-time-mom-needs-a-doula